Defense institution recruits interns utilizing innovative framework
In a significant move to empower the youth of Thailand, two leading organizations, the National Defence College and Bitkub, have launched innovative internship programs aimed at bridging the gap between education and employment. The initiatives, "Future Ready by Future Leader" and Bitkub's internship program, are designed to offer equal opportunities for young people across the nation, with a particular focus on those in the Deep South.
The "Future Ready by Future Leader" program, launched by the National Defence College on July 4, 2025, aims to enhance opportunities for Thai youth, particularly those in the Deep South, by pairing them with internships at leading Thai companies. The program is a pioneering model designed to promote equal opportunities for youth nationwide and targets developing at least 10% of interns into full-time employees.
Thailand's leading companies, including Proud Real Estate PLC and Bitkub, a cryptocurrency exchange, are participating in the program. Executives from these companies emphasize on-the-job training, adaptability, digital literacy, and AI proficiency as critical skills for interns. Interested candidates can apply online at www.JobThai.com/Futureleader before the deadline on July 31, 2025.
Bitkub encourages new graduates to reach out for internships, even when their education credentials may not match with the positions for which they are applying. Bitkub has invested and launched policies that support job placement at the end of the internship by offering job training on day one.
Jirayut Srupsrisopa, CEO of Bitkub, stated that the digital economy is expected to account for 15.5% of global GDP in the next five years. He emphasized the need for digital literacy and AI proficiency that most interns and new employees are still lacking in.
Proudputh Liptapanlop, Executive Director of Proud Real Estate PLC, emphasized the goal of creating leaders who can navigate Thailand's complex socio-economic and political environment. He stated that systemic change is necessary, with a focus on on-the-job training and adaptability to fix the growing divide between graduates' skills and job market demands.
The Future Ready by Future Leader program offers hybrid learning models, field trips, and exposure to opportunities. It is part of a broader vision by the National Defence College to prepare the next generation not only for security challenges but also for economic uncertainties, environmental issues, and regional changes by emphasizing education and skill development.
Nicha Atsadathorn, Deputy managing director of sugar producer Thai Rung Ruang Group, discussed the challenges of bridging generational differences in the workplace. She mentioned that her company is transitioning from a focus on agricultural products to modern industries. She also noted that the skills mismatch isn't just a hiring problem but a human connection problem.
Chief of Defence Forces Gen Songwit Noonpakdee stated that security today isn't just about military readiness but also preparing the new generation to face economic uncertainties, environmental challenges, and regional changes. He also mentioned that the best tool of the future is education.
With 150 three-month job training internships available for graduates in the Future Ready by Future Leader program, these initiatives are set to make a significant impact on the lives of young Thai people, offering them the opportunity to gain valuable experience and skills while contributing to the growth and development of their nation.
The "Future Ready by Future Leader" program and Bitkub's internship program, both designed with a focus on education and self-development, are providing opportunities for personal growth and career development by offering skills training, job search assistance, and on-the-job training. These initiatives, aimed at young Thai people across the nation, are also preparing them to navigate the complex socio-economic environment by emphasizing adaptability, digital literacy, and AI proficiency.
